Trump’s policies and rhetoric against foreigners are hurting US tourism.

Are the Olympics returning to Los Angeles a cause for celebration or concern? Chris Hayes raises an important question in his article, highlighting the potential impact of President Trump’s policies on US tourism. With his constant rhetoric about America being ripped off by foreigners, is there a contradiction in hosting one of the world’s biggest sports events while simultaneously implementing restrictive measures on immigration and visas? The economic benefits of hosting the Olympics are undeniable, attracting tourists, generating revenue, and enhancing global prestige. However, in the current circumstances, where Trump’s administration has canceled visas for hundreds of foreign students and implemented other restrictive policies, the potential gains from hosting the Games might be diminished. Hayes delves into the consequences of such policies, shedding light on the decline in travel to the US and the potential economic losses it could incur. As the world watches, will Trump’s war on tourism end up hurting Americans more than the foreigners he claims are taking advantage?

1. Trump’s anti-foreigner rhetoric and policies

Hayes highlights how President Trump’s entire shtick revolves around the idea that America is being ripped off by foreigners. This sentiment is reflected in his administration’s actions, such as canceling visas for hundreds of foreign students and implementing restrictive immigration measures. Secretary of State Marco Rubio has also emphasized that visiting America is a privilege extended only to those who respect its laws and values.

2. The importance of tourism to the US

The United States has traditionally enjoyed a significant trade surplus in the tourism industry, attracting visitors from all over the world who spend money in American institutions, shops, museums, restaurants, and hotels. The US travel industry generated $1.3 trillion in revenue last year and supported 15 million American jobs. Additionally, foreign students studying in the US contribute to the economy through their tuition dollars, while also enriching American institutions with their talents and research.

3. The impact of visa cancellations and restrictive policies

Trump’s mass visa cancellations, which seem to have started as an ideological crusade against individuals with differing views on the war in Gaza, have had unintended consequences. Hayes cites examples of individuals like Suguru Onda, a Japanese graduate student, whose visa was revoked based on minor infractions such as speeding tickets and a fishing violation that was later dismissed. Such capricious actions create an atmosphere of uncertainty and fear among foreigners in the US.

4. Decline in travel to the US under Trump

The data from the International Trade Administration and the Commerce Department reveals a significant decline in travel from Europe to the US since Trump took office. Furthermore, recent data shows that arrivals of noncitizens to the US by plane dropped almost 10% in March compared to the previous year. Canadian flight reservations to the US have also decreased by 70% for the period through September, which accounts for a significant portion of US tourism.

5. Economic consequences

The decline in tourism due to Trump’s policies and rhetoric could have severe economic implications. Goldman Sachs estimates that reduced travel and boycotts could result in a potential loss of almost $90 billion in US GDP this year alone. This loss of revenue directly affects Americans who benefit from the money flowing into the country through tourism. Hayes argues that Trump’s war on tourism ultimately harms Americans rather than achieving his goal of sticking it to foreigners.

In conclusion, Chris Hayes raises valid concerns about the impact of Trump’s anti-foreigner rhetoric and policies on US tourism. Hosting the Olympics in Los Angeles should be a significant opportunity to attract tourists, generate revenue, and enhance global prestige. However, the current circumstances, characterized by visa cancellations and restrictive measures, are far from normal. The United States has traditionally enjoyed a trade surplus in the tourism industry, with people from all over the world visiting American institutions, shops, and museums, contributing to a $1.3 trillion industry that supports 15 million American jobs. Additionally, American schools benefit from tuition dollars paid by international students, who also bring their talents and research to benefit American enterprise. Unfortunately, the decline in travel to the US under Trump’s policies is evident, and this trend is likely to have severe economic consequences. Reduced travel and boycotts could cost the US nearly $90 billion in lost GDP this year alone, ultimately impacting Americans who rely on the money flowing in from foreign visitors. Hayes argues that Trump’s war on tourism harms Americans rather than achieving his goal of sticking it to foreigners.